The concept that oil is effective in removing oil is based on the principle of "like dissolves like." This means that similar substances can dissolve each other. In hair care, this principle is applied through the use of pre-shampoo oil treatments to remove bacteria excess sebum, dirt, and buildup from the scalp and follicles. Here's a more detailed explanation:
HARMFUL EFFECTS OF BACTERIA BUILDUP :
When bacteria levels on the scalp become too high, it can lead to scalp conditions that may negatively affect hair follicles. While hair follicles don’t "die" directly from bacterial overgrowth, the inflammation and infection caused by certain harmful bacteria can disrupt the scalp's natural balance and environment, leading to conditions like folliculitis, seborrheic dermatitis, or even bacterial infections.
These conditions can inflame and irritate the scalp, affecting hair follicles in several ways:
1. Inflammation: Bacterial overgrowth can cause inflammation around hair follicles, which may restrict blood flow and nutrient delivery to the follicle, weakening it over time.
2. Folliculitis: A bacterial infection of the hair follicles that causes red bumps, irritation, and sometimes scarring. Severe or untreated folliculitis can damage hair follicles and lead to hair thinning or hair loss.
3. Sebum and Oil Imbalance: Bacteria can feed on excess sebum (oil produced by the scalp), which can exacerbate scalp conditions and clog hair follicles. Blocked follicles prevent hair from growing properly, leading to shedding or thinning.
While hair follicles themselves don’t "die" immediately, prolonged or severe bacterial infections and inflammation can lead to permanent damage if not addressed. Proper scalp hygiene, using antibacterial or antifungal treatments, and maintaining a healthy scalp environment are key to supporting healthy hair growth.
THE EFFECTS OF UNMANAGED Sebum Production:
The scalp naturally produces sebum, an oily substance that helps to protect and moisturize the skin. However, excess sebum can mix with dead skin cells, dirt, and environmental pollutants, clogging hair follicles and leading to scalp issues such as dandruff, inflammation, and even hair loss.
HOW TO KEEP YOUR SCALP HEALTHY: Oil Cleansing
When a pre-shampoo oil treatment is applied to the scalp, it binds to the excess sebum and other oily impurities. Oils, such as jojoba, coconut, or argan oil, have a similar composition to the natural oils produced by the scalp. This allows them to effectively dissolve and lift away sebum and impurities without stripping the scalp of its natural protective barrier. The oil also helps to soften and dislodge buildup, making it easier to cleanse away.
3. Emulsification:
Most oil treatments contain emulsifying agents that allow the oil to be mixed with water. This is crucial because it enables the oils, along with the dirt and impurities they have collected, to be easily rinsed away. When water is added to the oil treatment, it transforms into a milky consistency that washes out cleanly, leaving no greasy residue behind.
4. Benefits:
Using oil to cleanse the scalp can help maintain its natural balance. This method prevents the overproduction of sebum that can occur when the scalp is stripped of its natural oils by harsh shampoos. By removing excess oil and buildup, oil treatments ensure that the scalp remains healthy and that hair follicles are not blocked, promoting healthier hair growth. Additionally, these treatments can soothe irritation and inflammation, providing relief for dry or sensitive scalps.
5. Enhanced Shampoo Effectiveness:
Pre-shampoo oil treatments prepare the scalp for a more effective shampooing experience. By removing the bulk of the buildup and excess oil, shampoos can work more efficiently to cleanse the scalp and hair. This ensures that the scalp is thoroughly clean, allowing for better absorption of any subsequent hair care products, such as conditioners or treatments.
It is a game changer: pre-shampoo oil treatments leverage the ability of oil to dissolve oil, providing a gentle yet thorough cleansing method that supports the scalp's natural balance and health. This preparation step enhances the effectiveness of shampooing, ensuring a cleaner, healthier scalp and promoting overall hair health.
Pro tip: if you are still “greasy” after using an oil treatment before you shampoo it’s probably one of two things:
you used too much oil (over oiled your scalp) or you have not shampooed thoroughly so try to troubleshoot these two things if you’re new to scalp oiling!
Oil Removes Oil from My Najeau on Vimeo.
